Procedure to Claim Unemployment in South Africa
How to claim Unemployment Insurance in South Africa?
If you want to claim from the UIF you need to go to your nearest Labour Office or register and claim online. There you will be asked to sign the unemployment register. You will be told when you need to come back and sign the register again.
What is the Unemployment Insurance Fund?
The fund offers short-term financial assistance to workers when they become unemployed or are unable to work because of illness, maternity or adoption leave. The fund also assists the dependants of a contributing worker who has died.
Who does not qualify for the Unemployment Fund in South Africa?
The Unemployment Insurance Act and Unemployment Insurance Contributions Act apply to all employers and workers, but not to:
- those working less than 24 hours a month for an employer
- learners
- public servants
- foreigners working on contract
- workers who get a government old age pension
- workers who only earn commission.
What are the Requirements to claim Unemployment Fund in South Africa?
To claim unemployment benefits you need to have:
- A copy of 13-digit bar-coded identity document.
- A copy of your last six payslips.
- Information supplied by your employer (UI-19).
- A service certificate from the employer.
- Proof of registration as a work seeker.
- A fully completed registration form.
Who qualifies for unemployment benefits in South Africa?
In South Africa, in order to qualify for the benefits, you must register as a work seeker. You must apply for the UIF benefits as soon as you become unemployed or within six months of the termination of your employment. Find out more about unemployment benefits or contact the UIF.
